Students inject own style into musical
Little Shop of Horrors is coming to Cambridge High School’s stage this year.
The well-known musical was written by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman who together went on to compose and write for Disney Animation Studios.
The school’s Head of Drama Larissa Peters said the students would perform the revival version.
Little Shop of Horrors brings to life the story of Seymour Krelborn (played by Year 12 student James Ter-Morshuizen) a meek and mild florist assistant who raises a plant he discovers after a solar eclipse that goes on to feed on human flesh and blood.
He works in Mushnik’s Skid Row Florists (Mr Mushnik played by Year 11 student James Santner) with his love interest Audrey (played by Year 12 student Nikita Frost).
Other lead roles include our four Bops played by Brenna Herewini, Lavana Davis, Molly Goodeve (winner of Benny Award for young entertainer of the year) and Ngaia Reweti.
Orin Scrivello (dentist) played by Dylan Clark and Audrey II (voice of the plant) by Nu’umoe Duffy. The musical is based on the 1960s black comedy film Little Shop of Horrors.
‘‘It features catchy songs, none of the cast and crew can get these upbeat, fun tunes out of their head,’’ said Peters.
There is some mature content and language.
‘‘We have exceptionally talented students at Cambridge High School and have leads from Year 10 right through to Year 13, and a tight and energetic chorus made up of all year levels,’’ said Peters.
‘‘Our 34-strong cast supported by staff, have been rehearsing since February.
‘‘The students are loving working on this show and have contributed their own ideas and interpretations throughout the process.’’
They benefited from a singing workshop at the beginning of the process from Broadway actor and singing tutor Ravil Atlas.
‘‘We have also greatly enjoyed working in our new and improved performance space after renovations were completed in 2016 to the stage space and school hall.’’
Peters also directed and produced the show.
Musical direction is by Head of Music Daniel Peters, Choreography by Head of Dance, Alana Gain.
Evening shows are on Monday, May 8; Tuesday, May 9; Thursday, May 11; Friday, May 12 and Saturday, May 13.
Tickets are available from the Cambridge High School Student Office at $15 for adults, $10 for students and $40 for a family pass (two adults and two children).
Show starts at 7pm each night and doors will be open from 6.30pm.